Don’t risk getting behind the wheel while over the limit during Euro 2020. This advice follows the launch of Surrey & Sussex Police’s summer crackdown on motorists driving under the influence during the European Championships.
The consequences for drink and drug driving can be deadly, even the morning after. Richard Hornsey, Casualty Reduction Sergeant at Sussex Safer Roads Partnership, said:
“When you go out drinking, it takes a long time for alcohol and other substances to leave your system. Drinking coffee or having food doesn’t reduce the amount of alcohol in your system and the length of time it takes for alcohol or drugs to leave your system varies from person to person.Even a small amount of alcohol can impair your judgement and driving, if you’re out enjoying the football , taking a taxi or walking home is far better than causing or being involved in a serious or fatal collision. Plan ahead and never get into a vehicle with someone you know is or could be over the limit.
The Sussex Safer Roads Partnership has a morning after calculator on our website. The calculator can be used to demonstrate the average time it takes for alcohol to leave your system. However, this should not be used as a guide to time yourself before driving after drinking. The only way to guarantee being under the limit is not to drink. Drink OR drive; never both.”
The consequences of drink and driving offences can include the following:
- Killing or seriously injuring yourself or someone else;
- A minimum 12 month ban;
- An unlimited fine;
- A possible prison sentence;
- A criminal record, which could affect your current and future employment;
- An increase in your car insurance costs;
- Trouble travelling to countries such as the USA.
We’re reminding the public that if they know someone is driving while over the limit or after taking drugs, call 999.
Alternatively, people in Sussex can text officers on 65999 with the details of people they suspect of drink or drug-driving, or visit the Operation Crackdown website. Reports can also be made by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or report it online.
The campaign is being run throughout the summer in conjunction with Surrey and Sussex Police along with colleagues at Drive Smart in Surrey.
